Gennaro Gattuso has been officially appointed as the new head coach of the Italian national team, marking a significant moment for Italian football. The announcement, made by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) on June 15, 2025, has been met with both excitement and scrutiny, given Gattuso's iconic status as a player and his relatively unproven managerial career on the highest stage.
FIGC President Gabriele Gravina lauded Gattuso as "a symbol of Italian football," emphasizing the deep connection the former midfielder has with the Azzurri jersey. Gravina expressed confidence that Gattuso's "motivation, professionalism, and experience will be fundamental" in navigating the challenges that lie ahead for the national team. A press conference to formally introduce Gattuso is scheduled for Thursday, June 19, in Rome.
Gattuso steps into the role following the dismissal of Luciano Spalletti, a decision triggered by Italy's disappointing 3-0 defeat to Norway in a 2026 World Cup qualifying match. Despite the setback, Spalletti remained in charge for the subsequent 2-0 victory against Moldova. Now, Gattuso inherits a team eager to regain its status as a dominant force in international football.
The appointment of Gattuso carries considerable weight due to his illustrious playing career. As a tenacious and combative midfielder, he was an integral part of the AC Milan side that achieved remarkable success under Carlo Ancelotti, and he also played a crucial role in Italy's 2006 World Cup triumph. With 73 senior appearances for the Nazionale, Gattuso embodies the passion and grit associated with Italian football. He also has experience in the international arena at the youth level, having been part of the team that won the European Under-21 Championship in 2000.
However, questions have been raised regarding Gattuso's credentials as a manager. While he has held positions at clubs such as AC Milan, Napoli, Valencia, Olympique Marseille and Hajduk Split, he hasn't yet achieved a level of success that definitively establishes him as a top-tier coach. Some critics point to his "hot-headed nature" and reputation as a demanding and aggressive figure, wondering if that approach will translate effectively to the national team setup.
Despite the skepticism, Gattuso's unwavering dedication to the national team is undeniable. Gravina highlighted Gattuso's commitment to the "overall development of our football, with the Azzurri strategically at the centre." Gattuso himself understands the magnitude of the task ahead and has expressed his gratitude for the opportunity.
Italy's recent form has been cause for concern. Since their triumph at Euro 2020, the Azzurri have struggled to maintain consistency, and their hopes for the 2026 World Cup hang in the balance, currently sitting third in their qualifying group. Gattuso's immediate challenge will be to revitalize the squad, instill a clear tactical identity, and secure qualification for the upcoming World Cup. His first matches in charge will be against Estonia and Israel in September during the international break. These games will be crucial in setting the tone for his tenure and gauging the progress of the team under his leadership.
